Clinton County’s Opioid Settlement Committee Awards Grant Dollars

LORRA ARCHIBALD

Clinton County’s Opioid Settlement Funding Committee has awarded nearly $150,000 in grants aimed at combating substance use disorders within the community. These grants, made possible through a national settlement with the nation’s three major pharmaceutical distributors, signify a concerted effort by Clinton County and the City of Frankfort to address critical gaps in services for at-risk and underserved populations in the recovery community.

The recently approved grants are as follows:

  1. Frankfort Police Department: Awarded $4,160 to establish an incinerator for the destruction of drugs and facilitate drug take-back events, in partnership with the Clinton County Health Department, reducing costs and increasing accessibility for residents.
  2. First Responders: Awarded $50,000 ($10,000 each) to the Frankfort Police Department, Frankfort Fire Department, Clinton County Dispatch, Clinton County Emergency Medical Services, and the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office to provide essential therapy services for first responders, prioritizing their mental health and well-being.
  3. ONE80 Recovery Resources: Awarded $10,000 to kickstart a program supporting individuals on their journey to recovery, complementing recent renovations funded by the Division of Mental Health and Addiction.
  4. Clinton County EMS: Awarded $16,500 to acquire mechanical ventilation equipment, crucial for patient care and paramedic training, ensuring the provision of high-quality emergency medical services.
  5. WeCare Recovery Home: Awarded $30,000 to support their health and wellness initiative.

These initiatives were all recently approved by the Frankfort City Council, the Clinton County Commissioners, and the Clinton County Council. Lorra Archibald, head of the Opioid Settlement Committee, emphasized the importance of the grants, stating, “These initiatives are vital in our collective efforts to combat substance use disorders in Clinton County. They allow us to take meaningful steps towards a healthier, safer future.”

Agencies dedicated to the prevention and treatment of opioid use disorders are encouraged to apply for available grant dollars. Interested applicants must complete an online application, available through the rolling grant application portal at https://tinyurl.com/OPIOID-SETTLEMENT-GRANTS. Projects funded by these grants must serve Clinton County residents.

Story by Tammy Sander